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The South Tower
This 3-story tower was 24-meter (72-foot) high and was battered. The jail was located at its
bottom. We assume that it was topped with hoardings during war time. The roof is made of
wooden tiles called "essandoles" in the region.
Cross-section (drawn by Robert
Mader) |
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The North Tower
This 2-story tower was topped with a stone corridor covered with shingles (wooden
tiles). The corridor was probably moving forward above the wall to let defenders drop
rocks or boiling water on the attackers below (Machicolation).
Cross-section
(drawn by Robert Mader) |
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The Hoardings
These wooden extensions to the wall walk
were designed to protect the defenders
while they were shooting on the attackers or dropping rocks and other harmful objects.
The hoarding shown on the picture improves the defense of the angle facing the road coming
from Savoye. |
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The Arrow Loops
The curtain wall is 12-meter (36-foot) high and 4-meter (12-foot) thick. The 4 arrow loops
can still be seen nowadays. |
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The Main Gate
Like in most Alpine castles, the gate is not defended by a moat and a drawbridge.
Although not mentioned, we assume the gate was equipped with a portcullis made of a strong
oak grille. A wooden hoarding on top of the wall is the only protection against the enemy. |
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Defending Bellecombe Castle
